User:Mr. Ibrahem/Alpha-gal allergy

Alpha-gal allergy, also known as red meat allergy, is a type of allergic reaction that occurs after exposure to products containing alpha-gal, such as eating red meat. Symptoms can include hives, nausea, diarrhea, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and abdominal pain. Often onset is two to six hours after exposure. Complications can include anaphylaxis.

The condition is believed to be triggered by certain tick bites; such as lone star ticks in the USA, and paralysis ticks in Australia. The underlying mechanism involves the body producing immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies that react to the carbohydrate galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal). Other factors that may worsen the reaction include alcohol, recent exercise, spices, and NSAIDs. Diagnosis is based on symptom and testing IgE to alpha-gal blood levels.

Management involves avoiding products that contain alpha-gel. Often this means avoiding meat and possibly dairy from mammals. In certain cases gelatin needs to also be avoided. Medications that contain alpha-gal may include heparin and cetuximab. In those who developed anaphylaxis epinephrine is used. Further tick bites should be avoided, as this may worsen the condition. Prevention is by avoiding tick bites, such as by treating clothing with permethrin and using DEET.

Alpha-gal allergy has been reported in 17 countries on six continents. In certain parts of Australia about 113 per 100,000 are affected, while about 13 per 100,000 have the condition in Virginia and 4 per 100,000 in certain parts of Germany. The condition was first described in 2006 and 2007 by Sheryl van Nunen.